Chicago's Latest Indoor Mask Mandate, How Will You Be Affected

Chicago’s indoor mask mandate returned on Friday and not many people are happy about it. Due to the recent spike in Covid-19 cases, mostly the Delta variant, Chicago is doing its part to try and slow down the spread. Unlike the previous indoor mask mandate, however, there will be a couple of significant differences. It will have a huge effect on the upcoming events Chicago will be hosting.

Outside gatherings, including sporting events will be mask optional. This is a stark change from when the original mask mandate was issued in the spring of 2020.

Fans who are taking in the Chicago Bears, Chicago Cubs, Chicago Fire, and Chicago White Sox can wear their masks if they choose to while at their seats. However, they will have to wear them when they go to the bathrooms or order concessions from the concession stands. Employees of the stadiums will be required to wear their masks at all times.

Most of the outside festivals will adhere to the same mask mandate rules, although they can make it where your entry will depend on your vaccination status.

With the mask mandate returning, some major concerts have either been postponed or cancelled altogether.

The mega popular boy band BTS announced that they cancelled their tour. As did Nine Inch Nails and Stevie Nicks.

With the latest indoor mask mandate, restaurants and bars will remain open, but patrons must wear their masks when they are not eating or drinking.

Also, the decision to reinstate the indoor mask mandate will most likely mean that all schools while force everyone to wear masks inside of school buildings.

It is unknown when Chicago will lift the indoor mask mandate. Chances are that city officials will monitor the statistics in the upcoming weeks in hopes of a reversal. Riot Fest, which is the next big festival Chicago will have after the Air and Water Show may have some strict rules in place for their attendees when it opens up less than a month from now.